What to Expect at Your Saddle Fitting

Thank You for Choosing Precision Saddle Fitting

We're excited to work with you and your horse to find a comfortable, functional, and well-balanced saddle. On this page, you'll find everything you need to know about how our appointments work and how to prepare.

Appointment Length & Fees

The length of your appointment depends on what you're shopping for:

  • Used saddle fitting: approximately 1–1.5 hours
  • Custom saddle fitting: approximately 2–2.5 hours

Fees

  • Saddle fitting appointments start at $150.
  • Appointment fees are subject to change, and additional travel fees may apply depending on your location.
  • Please contact us for a personalized quote.

If you are in a program or you regularly ride with a trainer, it can be very helpful to have them present (or available) for your appointment.  However, it is not a requirement!

How to Prepare

To keep your appointment running smoothly and on time:

  • Have your horse groomed and ready to tack up when your fitter arrives.
  • At the start of the appointment, we'll take a few minutes to learn about you and your horse — your discipline, level, history, and any specific concerns.

If your horse is nervous, fearful, very sensitive, or has prior injuries, please let your fitter know. This helps us keep the experience safe and comfortable for everyone.

What Riders Should Wear

Please wear plain, unadorned breeches to your appointment. Buttons, bling, and jeans can scratch saddle leather, so we ask that you avoid them during your fitting.

Tracings (For New and Used Saddles)

If your appointment involves purchasing a new or used saddle through Precision Saddle Fitting, your fitter will begin by taking a detailed tracing of your horse's back.

This step helps us to:

  • Match the right tree shape: Tracings give a clear picture of your horse's unique back shape, so we can identify which saddle trees are most likely to fit comfortably and evenly.
  • Compare multiple saddles accurately: Whether you're considering used saddles from our inventory or exploring new/custom options, tracings help us quickly rule out unsuitable models and focus on those that truly suit your horse.
  • Monitor changes over time: As your horse's body changes with training, age, time off, or management adjustments, these tracings provide a reference point so we can track changes and adjust your saddle fit as needed.

Starting with tracings sets the foundation for a precise, efficient, and horse-friendly fitting process.

Step 1: Static Fit (Standing Evaluation)

The static fit is our first stage of evaluation and happens with your horse standing still.

During the static fit, your saddle fitter will:

  1. Assess your horse's conformation and back shape.
  2. Select appropriate saddles from our demo stock and inventory.
  3. Place these saddles on your horse from the ground (without a rider) to evaluate:
    • Balance
    • Panel contact
    • Wither and spine clearance
    • Overall suitability for horse and rider

This process allows us to narrow down the saddles that are the best candidates for you to ride in.

Step 2: Dynamic Fit (Ridden Evaluation)

Once we've chosen the most promising saddles from the static fit, it's time to ride.

The dynamic fit shows us how the saddle performs in motion:

  • You will ride in each selected saddle so we can observe your horse's movement, comfort, and way of going, along with your position, balance, and stability.
  • Your fitter will ask you detailed questions about how you and your horse feel in each saddle. We bring the expertise in saddle fit, but you are the expert on your horse, and your feedback is essential.
  • If there are several good options, you may change saddles multiple times to compare and refine the choice.

Safety reminder: We strongly recommend that all riders wear a helmet while mounted.

After Your Appointment

Following your fitting with Precision Saddle Fitting:

  • Your fitter will send you a summary of the notes taken during your appointment.
  • If applicable, you will receive a quote and/or invoice for any recommended saddles or services.
  • If questions come up after you've had time to ride more or speak with your coach, please reach out anytime — we're always happy to help.

Ready to Book Your Fitting?

Contact Precision Saddle Fitting today to schedule your saddle fitting appointment. We look forward to working with you and your horse!